Name: Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and well-drained

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If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side that’s as comforting as it is packed with flavor, Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread might just become your new obsession. This irresistible dish brings together the sweet crumbly goodness of classic cornbread with melty cheddar, tender broccoli, and a creamy hit from cottage cheese. Whether you’re baking it up for a weeknight dinner or adding it to your holiday spread, each slice is a golden promise of savory satisfaction. Let’s dive into everything that makes Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread a staple you’ll crave all year long!

Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple staples coming together for maximum deliciousness. Each ingredient has a purpose, creating just the right mix of savory, cheesy, and tender texture that sets Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread apart from the crowd. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Corn muffin mix: The foundation for that classic cornbread crumb, with just the right touch of sweetness and structure.
Large eggs: Bind everything together and help the final bread rise perfectly while staying moist.
Melted butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality you can’t beat.
Cottage cheese: Makes each bite incredibly moist and provides a subtle tang that balances the corn and cheddar beautifully.
Shredded cheddar cheese: You’ll want it for that irresistible cheesy pull and the punch of sharp, savory flavor.
Finely chopped onion: Lends a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth to the bread without overpowering.
Frozen chopped broccoli: The star veggie; adds color, texture, and a wholesome freshness—just be sure to thaw and drain it well.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, which gives you just enough time to throw everything together. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a 9-inch cast iron skillet. Using a cast iron skillet? You’ll get those beautiful crispy edges!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and cottage cheese. Take a moment to enjoy how creamy and rich this mixture becomes—it’s the secret to an ultra-moist cornbread.

Step 3: Combine Everything Else

Stir in the corn muffin mix until just combined, then add the chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and the thawed, well-drained broccoli. Fold the mixture gently to make sure every bite will have melty cheese, sweet onion, and flecks of broccoli.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Pour your Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean—your sign that it’s perfectly done.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps everything set, so your squares come out neat and steam escapes without drying them out.

How to Serve Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar over the top right after baking for a gooey finish, or shower with fresh chopped chives or parsley to add a pop of green. A touch of flaky sea salt never hurts either!

Side Dishes

Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread shines with classic Southern mains—think alongside a bowl of chili, with BBQ chicken or ribs, or as a perfect foil to creamy soups or holiday turkey. It’s hearty enough to stand up to saucy dishes, but humble enough to sit beside a simple salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread into triangles for a rustic look, stack squares for eye-catching height on a platter, or bake individual portions in muffin tins for a grab-and-go option at potlucks. It’s a blank canvas for all your most festive presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap leftover cornbread tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature, though you’ll likely find it disappears faster than that!

Freezing

For longer storage, Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread freezes like a dream. Slice it into portions, wrap well, and freeze for up to two months. When you need a quick side, just pull out as many slices as you need and thaw at room temp.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked magic, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave individual slices on low until warmed through. A quick toast will refresh the edges and melt the cheese beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just chop fresh broccoli finely and steam or blanch it first until tender, then drain well before mixing into the batter for your Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread.

Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?

Yes; ricotta cheese or even sour cream will work in a pinch, though cottage cheese keeps things extra moist while adding a little protein boost.

Can I leave out the onion?

Of course. If you’re sensitive to onion or just prefer a milder flavor, go ahead and skip it—your Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread will still be plenty flavorful.

What’s the best way to check if it’s done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (no wet batter), your Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread is ready to come out of the oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and watch the cook time—it may need a few extra minutes. This is the perfect way to feed a hungry crowd!

Final Thoughts

There’s something about Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread that brings everyone to the table smiling. Whether you’re looking to impress at a celebration or simply spice up a weeknight dinner, this recipe never fails to add warmth (and a little extra cheese) to the moment. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a staple in your kitchen!

Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread is a delicious twist on traditional cornbread, packed with savory flavors and nutritious broccoli. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale

Cornbread:

1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix
2 large eggs
1/2 cup melted butter

Cheesy Mixture:

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Add-Ins:

1 small onion, finely chopped
1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and well-drained

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or 9-inch cast iron skillet.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, and cottage cheese. Stir in corn muffin mix, onion, cheddar cheese, and broccoli until fully combined.
Bake: Pour the batter into the dish and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before serving.